United We Serve

This post orginially appeared on the HandsOn Blog.
Somewhere along the way, we all face tragedy in our lives. Few are spared. People handle tragedies, though, in different ways. I often marveled at but was somewhat puzzled by those who found ways to turn personal tragedy into something positive. But now I understand.

This April, the Central Park Recreation Center in Atlanta was uninhabited and in disarray. Light fixtures were hanging from the ceiling, the Center had a stale smell, and brown water trickled from the faucets. Now, thanks to a partnership between Operation REACH's Gulfsouth Youth Action Corps and the City of Atlanta, the Center has reopened its doors to the community.

Ed Note: This blog is cross-posted from the White House Blog.
Having the Super Bowl Champion New Orleans Saints here at the White House this morning, there was a sense of hope and almost lightheartedness – nobody forgot that Louisiana is still in the midst of yet another tragedy, but it was reminder that New Orleans and the rest of the Gulf Coast has seen the worst before and come out fighting.

Today, President Barack Obama will announce the recipients of the 2010 Presidential Citizens Medal – and you can watch it live from the White House website.
For over 40 years, the Presidential Citizens Medal has recognized Americans who have "performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or their fellow citizens." Past recipients have included some of America's most respected public figures but also everyday heroes - united by an unwavering commitment to service. The Medal is among the highest honors a civilian can receive.

Every day, nonprofit organizations are banding together to strengthen their communities through innovative ideas – and they are producing remarkable results. We need to support and grow these efforts. Today, the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) is excited to announce its first-ever Social Innovation Fund (SIF) awards designed to support community-driven efforts to improve the economic, health and education prospects of low-income families.